“We can confirm that we are entering into formal negotiations with our Works Council, with the objective of ending production of C-Max/Grand C-Max at Saarlouis”, said the automaker. “Keeping the vehicle compliant with all regulatory obligations would require a very high level of investment for this model.”

Saarlouis currently employs 6,190 workers, but 1,600 jobs are in danger, noted the news outlet, quoting German press reports. The Blue Oval is apparently looking to reduce the workforce at the plant by cutting one of the three production shifts.

“As we continue to match production to consumer demand, the consultation process also will include necessary adjustments to the workforce at Saarlouis”, added Ford.

Other models that could be on the chopping block are the S-Max and Galaxy, according to previous reports. At the same time, the subcompact B-Max, which used to be produced in Romania, has already been dropped.

However, discontinuing their entire batch of minivans won’t leave Ford without any replacements. Crossover replacements that is, as the company will introduce more of them over the next few years.

If Ford had a competitive range of SUVs then this decision would make more sense, but the woeful Ecosport, ageing Kuga and 5 seat only Edge just don’t cut it. Glad to see the hideous looking Grand C-Max being ditched though but I still think there would be a market for a ‘stylish’ compact 5/7 seater mpv based on the new Focus. Not everyone wants a heavy, bulky SUV.